Circuitera · Browser workbench

Use an Arduino IDE on your Chromebook

Circuitera lets students start with a browser tab instead of a desktop toolchain. Write and verify Arduino sketches locally, then upload to supported hardware when Chrome and device policy allow USB serial access.

Open Arduino IDE Explore the workflow

USB features require a supported desktop browser and your permission.

Start without a desktop installation

No Linux environment, extension, or Circuitera account is required for local sketch editing and verification. Open the IDE, choose the board, and write or import an .ino sketch. The first verification downloads WebAssembly compiler assets; allow that download to complete before expecting fast repeat builds. Accounts are optional for cloud features.

Check classroom permissions first

On managed Chromebooks, the school must permit the site, browser storage, and serial-device access. Use a USB data cable and a supported board, then select its port from Connect board. If the port picker is unavailable or empty, ask the administrator to check policy and device recognition. Circuitera does not bypass school controls.

Make an offline and backup plan

Before class, prepare the offline compiler from the IDE’s Offline controls while connected. Wait for caching to finish and test your sketch. Export local work to a file before changing devices or clearing site storage. Browser storage and account sessions belong to a particular site origin, so export before moving from the Firebase URL to a custom domain.

Build a first classroom experiment

Begin with LED_BUILTIN Blink, verify the sketch, and upload only after confirming the board profile. Next, print a button or sensor reading to Serial Monitor at the matching baud rate. Use Serial Plotter for changing numeric values. The simulator can support experiments with modeled components when hardware is unavailable, but its device coverage is limited.

How it works

Open Circuitera in current desktop Chrome and select your board.
Create a sketch, Verify, and save an exported backup.
Grant serial access if permitted, Upload, and open Serial Monitor.

Frequently asked questions

Is Circuitera usable without an account?

Yes, the local Arduino editor and compiler do not require sign-in. Cloud projects and account features require authentication.

Will uploading work on every school Chromebook?

No. It depends on Web Serial support, USB hardware recognition, and the school’s device and browser policies. Editing and compiling do not require a connected board.